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4 min read
This weird summer weather has us dressing with one thing in mind: comfort.
As we trudge through this strange summer – heatwaves one week, torrential rain the next – our choice of footwear suddenly seems all the more important. After all, nobody wants to be suddenly sweltering in a cowboy boot when the sun comes out or to have to hide under a coffee shop canopy to protect new suede shoes (yes, we’ve been there with both). Comfortable footwear now seems all the more important so we’re ditching heels of all heights (even trusty kitten styles) in favour of flats, particularly ones that work well with dresses.
Luckily, there is no short supply of chic flat shoes for sale, and they come in a whole host of styles. Ballet flats are a long-term trusty staple that will work for any occasion, whether you’re in the boardroom or at brunch, mules add a laidback look that focuses on causal comfort, and sandals excel on those hot and sunny days when you just want to let your feet breathe – sorry for that mental image.
When it comes to dresses, flats can lend that more formal feel without the need for a high heel. Each option will work for almost every length and cut, so your main focal point should always be colour, whether you want to keep it sleek and simple or clash shades for a more striking effect. Just keep scrolling to see our nine favourite flat shoe styles that will see you through this summer (and beyond) with ease.
Teva women's hurricane XLT 2
Love them or loathe them, Teva’s velcro sandals have become quite the go-to for many a fan of practical fashion. Adding a good dose of functionality to the open-toed footwear space, Teva’s flexible soles and soft straps will make your daily step count so much more enjoyable.
New Look wide fit gold double strap Mary Jane ballet pumps
Offering slightly more coverage than a classic ballet flat are these gold Mary Janes. Effortlessly elevating any outfit, wear them with dresses, jeans or simple skirts for a more formal, yet still comfortable, fit.
Shop New Look wide fit gold double strap Mary Jane ballet pumps, £27.99
M&S leather woven flat ballet pumps
M&S’s leather woven ballet pumps have proven incredibly popular with the cream and brown shades already selling out. Offering a stylish twist on the classic ballet flat, they’re easy to slot into any wardrobe while leaning into a slightly more unique look.
Kurt Geiger Matilda loafer
Loafers are one of the most popular footwear picks for more formal environments, offices included. So if you’re searching for a shoe to complete your summer workwear wardrobe, look no further. Just be sure to give them a good wipe down every now and again to help keep them clean.
Charles & Keith patent pointed-toe slingback flats
These pointed-toe slingbacks will slot perfectly in place of a court shoe or trusty kitten heel, bringing the same formal feel with a little more comfort. Perfect for both the office with a simple shirt dress or for summer weddings with a floral frock, they’re sure to be a staple in any wardrobe.
Shop Charles & Keith patent pointed-toe slingback flats, £65
Ancient Greek Sandals Eleftheria braided metallic leather sandals
Sandals are a perennial summer favourites and there are plenty of styles to choose from. This strappy gold braided option reduced the faff of buckles or ties while looking incredibly sleek. Plus, as it’s a minimalist design, they really will work with any outfit – puff-sleeve, floral and denim frocks included.
Shop Ancient Greek Sandals Eleftheria braided metallic leather sandals at Net-a-Porter, £165
Jeffrey Campbell pickin' daisies mesh flats
Mesh ballet flats are having a real moment this season thanks to Alaïa. Adding a summertime spin to the style, these Jeffrey Campbell cops are dotted with embroidered daisies and leaves making them the perfect addition to any white dress or even jeans.
Shop Jeffrey Campbell pickin’ daisies mesh flats at Free People, £148
Arklectic green stripe Dina
Few shoes add to the laidback look like a mule (unless, of course, you’re looking at a trusty trainer). Bringing a holiday-like feel with a green and striped fabric upper, they’ll pair perfectly with a host of outfits, white dresses or even coloured frocks included, while the leather inner give them serious durability.
Joanie Clothing nice leather Mary Jane shoes
Although these pretty pink pumps won’t be for everyone, they are certainly sweet. For fans of more attention-grabbing footwear, treat these as a great occasion option that will liven up neutral shades or colour clash with blue, green or even red outfits.
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